The Bollinger/Dolle Mill.  Still standing, though slowly giving in to the years and weather.  This reminder of a time gone by sits just behind my husband's mother's home.  It is still owned by some distant relatives, but each of us in the immediate family have wished we could restore it and keep its traditions living.  Among the many stories about it is that the mill race behind the building (still full of water most of the year) was hand dug by slaves in the early 1800's.  The area was settled before that and we actually know where the early pioneers set up "camp" near-by as we have found pieces of pottery and china brought over from the "old country" there in the field.  

This mill most likely saw civil war soldiers, Indians, slaves, travelers and tradesmen, horse and buggies, and life and death as it happened many years ago.    

The Bollinger history is rich and fairly well recorded. It goes back even farther than the earliest settlers who came over in the 1700's and crossed the Mississippi River to begin a new life near the White Water River,  in the valley below where my mother-in-law lives.

I so enjoy walking these fields and farms!  Many an arrowhead, cemetery or old foundation remain with subtle hints about a time that has fallen silent.  Though the years have robbed much of the activity, the mysteries continue to arouse questions and curiosity about the heritage that sleeps.  

I am thankful for a heavenly heritage that comes complete with an even greater - and eternal future!  It is one that will not deteriorate or disappear!  It has promises of life beyond this one and the wonderful hope and assurance of seeing loved ones again.  As treasured and precious as history is, I joy in the amazing heritage and hope that Jesus provided for us!  He paid a great price so that this life might be only the starting line for a forever one!  We are required to accept His gift and run the race to enjoy the promises of forever.  This race will prove to have some hurdles, bumps and even battle scars, but the prize will never wear out or grow old.  How about a challenge for a heavenly home?  How about taking on this marathon that will not disappoint?  On your mark, get set....GO!